Another hot, dry week without significant precipitation in most areas of the state caused Iowa crop conditions to decline. With deteriorating crop conditions, there have been reports of some farmers starting to chop corn. Applying fungicide was the week's most common field activity.
There were 6.8 days suitable for fieldwork statewide during the past week. Topsoil moisture levels declined to 74% very short, 23% short, 3% adequate, and 0% surplus. At least 95% of the topsoil moisture is rated short to very short in all of Iowa's districts. Subsoil moisture dropped to 64% very short, 32% short, 4% adequate, and 0% surplus.
Ninety-six percent of the corn crop is at or beyond the tasseling stage, ahead of last year's 80% and the five-year average of 72%. Eighty-nine percent of the corn crop is silking, ahead of last year's 63% and the five-year average of 55%. Thirty-six percent of the corn crop has reached the milk stage. Twelve percent of the corn crop has reached dough stage, almost two weeks ahead of normal. Reports show corn has reached the dent stage in all districts except northwest and northeast Iowa. Corn condition is reported at 14% very poor, 26% poor, 37% fair, 21% good, and 2% excellent.
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